Public Benefits Specialist Entry. Bilingual English/Spanish Required

Initial Posting Date: 08/17/2026 • Application Deadline: 08/31/2026 • Agency: Department of Human Services

About the Role

Step into a role where your efforts directly empower Oregonians to rise above poverty—become a key player in the Oregon Eligibility Partnership and facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well-being. As a Public Benefits Specialist Entry, you will work in-person in our Roseburg, Oregon Branch assisting Oregonians. This position is not eligible for remote work.

This position is bilingual (English/Spanish) required. After passing the Spanish language exams, bilingual differential pay is 5% of the employee's base pay.

Responsibilities

• Be the first face of contact in the ODHS offices for customers either entering the physical office or virtually through the online application portal or telephone communication.
• Contribute to the welcoming environment as families interact with the department.
• Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.
• Work with Oregonians who are applying for programs such as medical, cash for families (TANF), Domestic Violence services, food benefits (SNAP), childcare assistance (ERDC), and long-term care services in-person, by phone and via our online applicant portal to answer case status and other inquiries; provide information on how to access community resources.
• Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.

Requirements

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service. This experience must have involved a high volume of work (e.g., data entry, assuring information on applications is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents, etc.); OR
• An associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND six months of experience working in a busy reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service; OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Skills

• Customer Service: Demonstrated professional demeanor that delivers quality customer service daily by telephone, in writing or in person.
• Computer Skills: Experience in usage and functionality of computers, web browsers, databases, and programs such as Microsoft along with other general office equipment such as phone systems, copiers, scanners, fax, etc. Experience using multiple systems in tandem for research and tracking.
• Communication: Experience conveying technical concepts, including complex rules, regulations, and procedures, to customers with diverse learning styles and varying levels of familiarity with the subject. Experience interpreting non-verbal cues, simplifying information into understandable components, utilizing relatable examples to illustrate intricate details, and confirming comprehension through active listening techniques.
• Collaborative Team Member: Experience elevating all team member voices with inclusion. Experience building relationships with team members.
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Experience independently reviewing and verifying information for the purpose of completing accurate data entry. Experience developing a comprehensive understanding of assignment to determine appropriate outcomes and follow up actions needed.
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging: Experience using trauma aware and strength-based practices to create welcome. Experience assisting individuals with diverse experiences and cultural backgrounds. Experience providing equitable service to overcome barriers.

Pay

Salary Range: $4,051 - $5,298 per month

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. This position works in the store front office and is not a remote position.

Working Conditions

• Contact with the public, including contact with Oregonians experiencing emotional and financial stress.
• Serve a diverse range of customers with compassion and professionalism through a trauma-informed lens.
• May require sitting at a computer or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
• Amazing benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Employment Preference for Veterans and Oregon National Guard members (5% awarded starting January 2026).

Additional Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.
• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification.
• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship.
• Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.
• If a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position and you are selected as the final candidate, you will be required to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.